Golf assessment and improvement system

ABSTRACT

A method and system for remotely assessing the physical fitness of a golfer is disclosed. Preferably, a golfer performs one or more fitness tests to determine his/her physical fitness level. Based on the golfer&#39;s performance of each of the one or more fitness tests, a workout regimen may be generated to assist the golfer in improving his/her performance of the one or more fitness tests, as well as his/her golfing performance. It is desirable for the method and system to be remotely accessible using a webpage accessible via a data network. In this manner, a plurality of golfers may have a customized workout regimen designed for them without the expense typically associated with such services.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a method and system for determining anathlete's fitness level or ability. More specifically, the presentinvention relates to method and system that generates a customworkout/exercise regimen based on an individual athlete's fitness levelor ability.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Avid golf fans that watch television coverage of golf tournaments oftenhear announcers talking about a particular professional golfer's workoutregimen. Indeed, many of the top professionals such as Tiger Woods, PhilMickelson, and Vijay Singh have workout regimens designed specificallyto enhance their strengths and to minimize their weaknesses. Becauseamateur golfers often desire the benefit of the tools available to theprofessionals, the demand for these services has increased due to thegrowing popularity of the sport.

However, services such as these are often provided by golf companies,possibly in combination with professional physical fitness trainers.Though the services may vary considerably, a golfer typically goes to afacility designated by a golf company, where his physical fitness isassessed. This may involve determining the golfer's strength,flexibility, and stamina. Once the golfer's physical fitness has beenassessed, a workout regimen may be designed to allow the golfer toimprove their strength, flexibility, and stamina, with the goal ofimproving their golf game.

Of course, custom services such as these are expensive, and thereforeout of reach to all but professionals and a few wealthy amateur golfers.In particular, these services often require a golfer to travel to a golfcompany's facility to have his/her fitness evaluated. Thus, thetraveling and time required are often prohibitive. Therefore, acontinuing need exists for a method and system for generating a workoutregimen according to an individual golfer's physical fitness level.Moreover, a continuing need also exists for a method and system that areable to generate a customized workout regimen in an affordable mannerwithout sacrificing the quality of the assessment and workout regimen.Furthermore, a continuing need exists for a system that is capable ofgenerating the customized workout for a plurality of golfers withoutrequiring travel and while minimizing the expenses to a golfer.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

While applying to virtually every sport, the invention will typically bediscussed herein with regard to golf. According to one aspect, thepresent invention comprises a sports assessment and improvement method.The method includes providing a computing device accessible via a datanetwork. The computing device preferably includes a processor and amemory. In addition, a plurality of input information about a golfer maybe provided to the computing device via the data network. The inputinformation may include at least one of a golfer's personal informationand a golfer's physical fitness assessment. Finally, a workout regimenbased on the input information may be generated. It is desirable for theworkout regimen to include at least one of cardiovascular exercises andmuscle strengthening exercises.

In one embodiment, providing the golfer's physical fitness assessmentincludes directing a golfer to perform one or more fitness tests, andthen having the golfer assess his/her performance of the one or morefitness tests based on predetermined criteria. Then, a first golffitness handicap may be generated based on the golfer's assessment oftheir performance. The workout regimen is preferably based on the golffitness handicap.

In this embodiment, a workout regimen may be generated for apredetermined evaluation period. A golfer may then perform one or morefitness tests after the evaluation period is over, and assess his/herperformance based on predetermined criteria. A second golf fitnesshandicap based on the golfer's assessment of his/her performance maythen be generated. Then, a second workout regimen based on the secondgolf fitness handicap may be generated for a predetermined period oftime. A golfer may optionally record information about his/her workoutregimen, such as the number of repetitions, the weight lifted, and thelike. This information may be stored in a database operatively connectedto the computing device.

The fitness tests that a golfer performs may include at least one of atoe touch test, a deep squat test, a seated trunk rotation test, a hiprotation test, a single leg balance test, a pelvic tilt test, a singleleg bridge test, a side bridge test, a supine latissimus dorsi test, areach, roll, lift test, an open book test, and a shoulder rotation 90/90test. In one embodiment, a video demonstration, audio instructions,and/or written instructions describing how to perform each of thefitness tests may be included. The workout that is generated may includeany type of exercise known to those skilled in the art, such ascardiovascular exercises, muscle strengthening exercises, stretchingexercises, Pilates, meditation, and yoga.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a golf assessmentand improvement system is provided. The system includes a serveraccessible via a data network. Also included is a memory that isoperatively connectable to the server. The memory preferably has acomputer program stored thereon, and it is also capable of storing aplurality of input information that is provided by a golfer. Theplurality of input information may be provided to the memory using awebpage accessible via the data network. The webpage may optionallyrequire the identity of the golfer to be authenticated.

Further, a processor that is also operatively connected to the servermay be included. It is desirable for the processor to execute computerprogram instructions included in the computer program so that a workoutregimen based on the plurality of input information may be generated. Inone embodiment, the plurality of input information comprises at leastone of a plurality of personal information and a physical fitnessassessment.

It is desirable for the data network to comprise at least one of a localarea network, wide area network, a private local area network, and aprivate wide area network. Moreover, the processor preferably comprisesone of a microprocessor, minicomputer, and mainframe computer processor.It is possible for the golfer to be located in a remote location fromthe server. For instance, a server could be located at a golf company'stesting facility while the golfer may be located at his/her home.

A sports assessment and improvement system that includes a server may beincluded according to yet another aspect of the present invention.Accordingly, the server includes a processor and a memory. The memorypreferably includes a computer program comprising computer programinstructions, and the server may be accessible via a data network.Additionally, a remotely located computing device capable of accessingthe data network via a webpage may be included. Optionally, one or morevideo cameras may be used with the computing device. An athletepreferably provides a plurality of input information to the server usingthe remotely located computing device. In one embodiment, the processoris operatively connected to the memory to execute the computer programinstructions in order to generate a workout regimen based on theplurality of input information.

In one embodiment, the athlete can access the workout regimen, whichincludes a plurality of exercises, using the remotely located computingdevice. Once the workout regimen has been accessed, the athlete mayperform the exercises according to a video demonstration, audioinstructions, and/or written instructions. Information regarding theathlete's performance of the exercises may then be stored on the server.In this embodiment, a plurality of athletes may access the server togenerate their own workout regimens. After each of the athletes storesinformation regarding his/her workout on the server, the information maybe analyzed to determine, for example, which exercises are mosteffective and/or beneficial. Using this analysis, a more effectiveworkout regimen may be designed.

According to another aspect, the present invention comprises aninteractive method of performing a sports assessment and improvementplan. The method includes using an interactive process to evaluate anathlete's physical attributes that are related to a particular sport,including acquiring a plurality of input information from fitness tests.Additionally, the method includes generating a workout regimen based onthe plurality of input information. The workout regimen is preferablydirected to improving the athlete's physical attributes.

In one embodiment, the interactive process includes remotely accessing aserver via a data network and then providing the plurality of inputinformation to the server. The remote access may be accomplished byusing a wireless computing device. The workout regimen that is generatedmay include at least one of cardiovascular exercises, musclestrengthening exercises, yoga, Pilates, stretching, and meditation.According to this aspect, the present invention may be used with anysport, such as baseball, hockey, basketball, football, tennis, soccer,swimming, track and field, boxing, skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding,and field hockey.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further features and advantages of the invention can be ascertained fromthe following detailed description that is provided in connection withthe drawings described below:

FIG. 1 shows an overview of an exemplary system according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a flow chart showing exemplary steps according to oneembodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 3 is a flow chart showing exemplary steps according to anotherembodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Other than in the operating examples, or unless otherwise expresslyspecified, all of the numerical ranges, amounts, values and percentagessuch as those for number of exercises, physical characteristics, inputs,and others in the following portion of the specification may be read asif prefaced by the word “about” even though the term “about” may notexpressly appear with the value, amount, or range. Accordingly, unlessindicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in thefollowing specification and attached claims are approximations that mayvary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by thepresent invention. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit theapplication of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims,each numerical parameter should at least be construed in light of thenumber of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary roundingtechniques.

Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forththe broad scope of the invention are approximations, the numericalvalues set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely aspossible. Any numerical value, however, inherently contains certainerrors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in theirrespective testing measurements. Furthermore, when numerical ranges ofvarying scope are set forth herein, it is contemplated that anycombination of these values inclusive of the recited values may be used.

Implementation

As mentioned above, athletes such as amateur golfers and professionalgolfers can benefit from physical fitness tests and customized workouts.To maximize the availability of such services, it is desirable toprovide the ability to access these services from many differentlocations. Accordingly, the present invention preferably uses a mediadevice that is capable of being accessed by a plurality of peoplelocated in a plurality of locations. The present invention also relatesto a method and computer program product for allowing an athlete, e.g.,a golfer, to perform a variety of tests that indicate that athlete'slevel of physical fitness. A customized workout routine, specific tothat athlete, is preferably designed based on the physical fitnessassessment. Preferably, a golfer is able to track his/her progress, overtime, as he/she performs the workout regimen. It may be desirable forthe workout regimen to be automatically changed after a predeterminedperiod of time based on, for example, successfully or unsuccessfullyreaching desired fitness objectives. Varying the exercises included inthe workout regimen also beneficially conditions the athlete's musclesfrom a plurality of angles and keeps the workouts interesting andchallenging.

In one embodiment, the method and system of the present invention may beimplemented using one or more computing devices. The computing devicemay be a programmed, general-purpose computer system, such as a personalcomputer, workstation, server, and/or minicomputer or mainframecomputer. In addition, the computing device may include a handheldwireless computing device, e.g., a Blackberry, personal digitalassistant (PDA), or any other handheld computing device known to thoseskilled in the art. Preferably, the handheld wireless computing deviceis capable of wirelessly accessing and communicating with a datanetwork.

The computing device preferably includes a processor (CPU), input/outputcircuitry, a network adapter, display, and a memory. The processorpreferably executes computer program instructions in order to carry outdesired functions in accordance with the present invention. Typically,the processor comprises a microprocessor, such as an INTEL PENTIUM®processor, but may also comprise a minicomputer or mainframe computerprocessor. The input/output circuitry provides the capability to inputdata to, or output data from, the computing device. For example, theinput/output circuitry may include input devices, such as keyboards, amouse, touch pads, trackballs, scanners, cameras, video cameras, and thelike. Output devices may include video adapters, monitors, and printers.Input/output devices, e.g., modems, may also be included. The networkadapter preferably interfaces the computing device with a data network.The data network may be any standard local area network (LAN), wide areanetwork (WAN), e.g., Ethernet, Token Ring, or the Internet, or a privateor proprietary LAN/WAN.

FIG. 1 shows an overview of an exemplary system according to oneembodiment of the present invention. According to this embodiment, aremotely located golfer is able to use his/her computing device 10,e.g., a personal computer, to access another computing device 12, e.g.,a server including a processor and a memory, via a data network 14. Thememory preferably includes a computer program that comprises computerprogram instructions. In this embodiment, a golfer preferably accessesthe server using a website, e.g., via the World Wide Web. However, anymethod or apparatus known to those skilled in the art may be used toestablish a connection between the computing devices 10 and 12. Aftergaining access to the server, the golfer enters his/her inputinformation (described below) into appropriate fields on the website.The input information may then be transmitted to the server, where theprocessor executes the computer program instructions. Preferably, thecomputer program generates a workout regimen based on the inputinformation provided by the golfer. In this manner, a plurality ofworkout regimens may be generated for a plurality of remotely locatedgolfers.

In one embodiment, the website may require a golfer to authenticatehis/her credentials, e.g., to enter a usemame and password, to verifythe golfer's identity. This may be desirable, for example, to allow agolfer to store his/her physical fitness assessment and modify his/herpreferences, or to allow a golf company to allow for billing and paymentvia the data network. In one embodiment, for example, authenticatinghis/her credentials allows the golfer access to a personalized webpage.

The present invention is not intended to be limited to any particularimplementation, such as the computing device accessible via a datanetwork described above. Those skilled in the art will recognize thatthe present invention is capable of implementation using a plurality ofmethods, apparatus, and/or systems, the entirety of which may be used incombination with the present invention, as described herein. Forexample, in another embodiment the present invention may comprise acomputer program that may be stored in a computer program product e.g.,a magnetic tape, Random Access Memory (RAM), Read Only Memory (ROM),optical disk, or other type of memory known to those skilled in the art.A golfer may obtain the computer program product and run the programusing a computing device, such as a personal computer.

The Input Information

According to one aspect of the present invention, a golfer is requiredto provide input information. One example of input information that isdesirable is a golfer's personal information, which may be used togenerate his/her profile. If the present invention is implemented usinga webpage accessible via a data network, the personal information may betyped into a window on the webpage manually by a golfer, or alternatelya golfer may choose from a plurality of options that are provided via,e.g., a drop-down menu, a “clickable” link, or a selectable button on awebpage.

With reference to FIG. 2, exemplary steps according to one embodiment ofthe present invention are now described. In this embodiment, the golfermay be prompted to provide a plurality of personal information togenerate a profile. This information may include the golfer's age,height, weight, gender, golf handicap, and the like. Optionally, theprofile may include other personal questions, such as how long thegolfer has been exercising, any injuries they may have sustained in thepast, and the like. Skilled artisans will recognize that a plurality ofother physical characteristics may be included in the profile asdesired. In addition, the present invention may accommodate other inputinformation that may be helpful in generating a customized workout.These inputs may include, for example, days of the week that are moreconvenient to workout and the fitness equipment to which the golfer hasaccess.

In addition to their personal information, it is desirable to have otherinformation about the golfer. In one embodiment, this additional inputinformation is determined by assessing the physical fitness level of thegolfer. In order to determine a golfer's physical fitness level, he/sheis directed to perform one or more fitness tests. After performing eachtest, the golfer is required to provide qualitative or quantitativeanswers to questions regarding his/her performance of those tests, e.g.,the number of repetitions performed, the amount of weight lifted, oryes/no answers. In a similar manner to the entering of profileinformation described above, the answers to these questions may be typedmanually into a window on a webpage, or a golfer may choose from among aplurality of answers that are present in, for example, a drop-down menu.

In one embodiment, a wireless computing device may be used to receiveinstructions on how to perform each fitness test, provide informationregarding a golfer's performance of each fitness test, and/or gainaccess to an administrator who can answer questions that he/she mayhave, e.g., via email, phone, chat room, or the like. One advantage ofusing such a wireless device is that the golfer does not have to writethe results of their performance, e.g., on a piece of paper, and thenenter his/her results at a later time, e.g., when they have access to afixed computing device such as a desktop computer. In addition, a golfermay see a video demonstration, or written instructions, on how toperform a particular exercise using the wireless computing device. Thisprovides the advantage of allowing a golfer to view a demonstrationduring their workout. The golfer may then transmit any desiredinformation via a data network during his/her performance of the fitnesstests.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the fitness tests that agolfer may be requested to perform may include, but are not limited to:a toe touch; deep squat; seated trunk rotation; hip rotation while lyingon your back; single leg balance test; pelvic tilt test; single legbridge test; side bridge test; supine latissimus dorsi test; a reach,roll, lift test; an open book test; and a shoulder rotation 90/90 test.Skilled artisans will recognize that a plurality of other tests may beused to evaluate the physical fitness of a golfer or other athlete.Accordingly, the examples listed above only represent a few of theplurality of possible tests, and are not intended to limit the presentinvention. In one embodiment, the tests may be performed using equipmentthat may be purchased at a retail store. In such an embodiment, it maybe necessary for the golfer to purchase such equipment before performingthe various tests. Alternately, a golfer may receive a prepackaged setof equipment from a golf manufacturer that allows them to perform therequired tests.

The number of exercises used to evaluate a golfer may vary based on aplurality of factors. For example, it may be desirable to use fewertests when time, or the exercise equipment available, is limited. Whentime or equipment are not limited, it may be desirable to use a greaternumber of tests to increase the accuracy of the fitness evaluation.Alternately, it may be preferable to use a smaller number of tests basedon a golfer's preferences. For instance, if a golfer is only interestedin evaluating a particular part of their body, fewer tests may berequired. Conversely, if a golfer is interested in a full bodyevaluation, a larger amount of tests may be performed.

In one embodiment, the present invention includes the capability toperform a “full evaluation,” or a “quick evaluation.” The “fullevaluation” may be performed on golfers who have the time, desire, andnecessary equipment to have their fitness thoroughly evaluated. A fullevaluation may require a golfer to perform more tests and to answer morequestions regarding his/her performance of those tests. As a consequenceof the more detailed evaluation, a more helpful and detailed workoutregimen may be generated. In contrast, a “quick evaluation” may beperformed on a golfer that has limited time, desire, or availableequipment. In this embodiment, the quick evaluation preferably focuseson the aspects of the golfer's fitness that are deemed most important byasking the golfer to perform specific tests, e.g., a overhead squattest, a toe touch test, and a half-kneel test. The resulting fitnessregimen may include fewer exercises that focus on improving core aspectsof a golfer's physical fitness. The quick evaluation may be desirable,for example, at a kiosk or other exhibition that seeks to quicklydemonstrate the capabilities of the present invention, e.g., at a golfshow or golf tournament.

The input information may include information regarding a golfer'sprevious injuries or other physical limitations. In one embodiment, thisinformation may be used to perform a “health check,” which allows thepresent invention to account for a golfer's injuries or limitations whendetermining what physical fitness tests to administer. For example, if agolfer indicates that he/she has had a knee injury in the past, physicalfitness tests that place excessive stress on his/her knees may beeliminated or modified. Similarly, the fitness tests may be chosen toprevent placing unnecessary stress on other body parts, e.g., heart,fingers, hands, elbows, legs, and the like, depending on the inputinformation provided by the golfer.

In one embodiment, the number of tests that may be performed ispreferably about 5 or greater. More preferably, the number of tests thatmay be performed is about 15 or greater. Most preferably, the number oftests that may be performed is about 30 or greater. In anotherembodiment, the number of tests that may be performed is preferablybetween about 1 and about 100. More preferably, the number of tests thatmay be performed is between about 1 and about 50. Most preferably, thenumber of tests that may be performed is between about 1 and about 25.According to another aspect of the present invention, the number oftests that is performed is preferably about 100 or less. Morepreferably, the number of tests that may be performed is about 75 orless. Most preferably, the number of tests that may be performed isabout 50 or less.

In addition to listing the tests that are to be performed, the presentinvention provides the golfer with assistance that explains how they areto be performed. In one embodiment, the assistance may comprise written,step-by-step instructions. Alternately, the assistance may include averbal recitation of the instructions. Most preferably, however, theassistance includes a video demonstration of each fitness test,accompanied by verbal and written instructions on how a particular testshould be performed. It is desirable for the tests to be structured suchthat a golfer may evaluate his/her own performance. However, in otherembodiments a golfer may print out a list of the fitness tests and ask aprofessional to evaluate his/her performance after observing themperform the tests. The professional may be a professional golfinstructor, a certified personal trainer, or some other qualifiedprofessional. In one embodiment, the professional may provide theirevaluation of a golfer's performance using a wireless computing device.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the inputinformation may include an analysis of the golfer's posture and/orswing. In one embodiment, this may be accomplished by using one or morevideo cameras to capture images of the golfer's posture and golf clubswing. The outputs of the video cameras are preferably attached, orotherwise operatively connected to, e.g., by using wired or wirelessmethods or apparatus, the golfer's computer or wireless computingdevice, allowing the acquired video to be stored. Once the video imageshave been captured, they may be analyzed to determine aspects of thegolfer's stance and the kinematics of their swing.

In one embodiment, this may be accomplished by analyzing the acquiredvideo images using, for example, a software program. The softwareprogram is preferably capable of automatically analyzing the golfer'sswing, posture, and stance. Once these aspects of the golfer's game havebeen analyzed, the present invention may be used to suggest exercisesthat may be useful to correct any mistakes that a golfer may be making.

One example of a software program that may be used in combination withthe present invention comprises drawing one or more lines over portionsof the image, and then calculating the angle between two or more lines.The lines may be automatically generated, or they may be manually drawnby a golfer using, for example, a mouse. Once the lines have been drawn,the angles between two or more lines may be analyzed to generateinformation regarding the posture, stance, or swing of the golfer.

For instance, it may be desirable to draw a line that tracks thegolfer's right leg and hip. Analyzing the angle between the golfer'sright leg and hip over the course of a golf swing may show, e.g., that agolfer's hips or leg is moving too much or too fast. This may berepeated using different lines to analyze a plurality of aspects of agolfer's swing and posture. Then, exercises that can improve their swingor posture may be recommended to improve the golfer's performance. Oneexample of a method and apparatus that may be used for these purposes isdescribed in U.S. Pat, No. 6,669,571 to Cameron et al., the entirety ofwhich is incorporated herein. Another example of software that may beused in combination with the present invention is described athttp://www.myecoaching.com. In an alternate embodiment, if a golfer doesnot have a video camera and/or computer available to them, they may havetheir swing evaluated at a remote location, e.g., a golf store orcountry club, where a professional golfer or instructor may evaluatehis/her swing and posture. The golfer may then use the evaluation toanswer one or more questions regarding his/her performance, allowing thepresent invention to suggest exercises that may be useful in correctingany imperfections.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the tests that agolfer performs may be used to assign a golfer a “golf fitnesshandicap.” After every test is performed, the golfer answers a questionregarding his/her performance, as described above. Based on the answerthat the golfer provides, his/her performance is quantified using anumerical score. After each of the exercises are performed, and thenumerical scores are added, and the result is referred to as the “golffitness handicap.”

In one embodiment, one goal of performing the fitness routine is to getthe golf fitness handicap to zero. For example, if ten tests areperformed by a golfer, a score between 0 and 3.6 may be awarded for eachtest, e.g., failing a test is worth 3.6 points, passing a test is worth0 points, and performance in between passing and failing can be awardedbetween 0 and 3.6 points. Thus, a golfer that fails every test would beawarded a golf fitness handicap of 36 points (10 tests×3.6 points foreach test =36 points). Similarly, a golfer that passes every test wouldbe awarded a golf fitness handicap of 0 points (10 tests×0 points foreach test =0 points).

Alternately, if twelve tests are performed by a golfer, a score between0 and 3 may be awarded for each test, e.g., failing a test is worth 3points, passing a test is worth 0 points, and performance in betweenpassing and failing can be awarded between 0 and 3 points. Thus, agolfer that fails every test would be awarded a golf fitness handicap of36 points (12 tests×3 points for each test =36 points). Similarly, agolfer that passes every test would be awarded a golf fitness handicapof 0 points (12 tests×0 points for each test =0 points). In thisembodiment, a fitness regimen may then be generated with the goal ofreducing the golfer's golf fitness handicap to zero, i.e., they pass allof the tests that are administered.

The present invention also includes the ability to modify the tests thatare administered in response to the golfer's golf fitness handicap. Forinstance, if a golfer fails every test, i.e., they have a golf fitnesshandicap of 36, the types of tests that are administered may bemodified, or the difficulty of the tests may be decreased, in order tobetter assess the golfers physical fitness. Likewise, if a golfer passesevery test, i.e., they are awarded a golf fitness handicap of 0, thetypes of tests that are administered may be modified, or the difficultyof the tests may be increased. However, it may also be desirable for agolfer that has a golf fitness handicap of 0 to maintain their currentlevel of physical fitness, i.e., workouts may be designed that allow agolfer to maintain their level of physical fitness, rather than beingdesigned to improve any particular aspect. In this case, the tests thatare administered are not changed. However, the golfer may bere-evaluated periodically to ensure that their golf fitness handicap hasnot increased from 0. Of course, skilled artisans will recognize thatthis is just one manner in which a golfer's performance may bedetermined. Other methods known to those skilled in the art may also beused alone, or in combination with the specific embodiments of themethod described herein.

In some embodiments, a golfer may have questions regarding particularaspects of the present invention, e.g., how to perform a particularexercise or how to evaluate their performance. The present inventionincludes a telephone number, email address, chat room, or the like, thatallows a golfer to communicate with a golf professional or otheradministrator that is familiar with the present invention. In oneembodiment, this information may be included on a website accessible bythe golfer. Allowing a golfer to communicate with a person who canrespond to their inquiries allows the input information, and theresulting workout regimen, to be more accurate. An administrator, orother person, may track the questions asked and use this information toenhance or alter directions given with respect to a given exercise.

The Fitness Regimen

Once the golfer's input information has been determined, a fitnessregimen may be generated based on the inputs. As used herein, “fitnessregimen” and “workout regimen” are synonymous, and may be usedinterchangeably. According to one aspect of the present invention, thefitness regimen may be automatically generated by a computer program.The fitness regimen or workout routine may include cardiovascularexercises, stretching, muscle strengthening exercises, meditation, yoga,Pilates, and other physical and mental exercises known to those skilledin the art. In one embodiment, the fitness regimen may be based onobjectives specified by the golfer. Thus, a golfer may choose whichtypes of exercises they want to be included in, or excluded from, theirworkout regimen, e.g., weight lifting, cardiovascular exercises, orstretching, or they may request that the workout regimen include anycombination of the available exercises that will give them the greatestchance of maximizing their fitness.

As mentioned above, the input information may include informationregarding a golfer's previous injuries or other physical limitations.This “health check,” is preferably performed so that the golfer'sinjuries or limitations may be accounted for when the fitness regimen isgenerated. For example, if a golfer indicates that he/she has had a kneeinjury in the past, a workout regimen may be designed to prevent placingundue stress on the golfer's knees. Similarly, the workout regimen maybe designed to prevent placing unnecessary stress on other body parts,e.g., heart, fingers, hands, elbows, legs, and the like, depending onthe input information provided by the golfer.

The “quick evaluation,” described above, includes less inputinformation, which may lo result in an exercise regimen that includesfewer exercises. In one embodiment, the quick evaluation results in anexercise regimen including about 20 or less exercises. More preferably,the quick evaluation results in an exercise regimen that includes about15 or less exercises. In another embodiment, the quick evaluationresults in an exercise regimen that preferably includes between about 1and about 30 exercises. More preferably, the quick evaluation results inan exercise regimen that includes between about 1 and about 15exercises.

The “full evaluation,” on the other hand, includes a greater amount ofinput information, which may result in a greater number of exercises.Preferably, the full evaluation results in an exercise regimen thatincludes about 50 or less exercises. More preferably, the fullevaluation results in an exercise regimen that includes about 40 or lessexercises. In another embodiment, the full evaluation preferably resultsin an exercise regimen that includes between about 1 and about 60exercises. More preferably, the full evaluation results in an exerciseregimen that includes between about 1 and about 40 exercises.

In other embodiments, the amount of input information, and resultantexercise regimen, may vary. Preferably, a fitness regimen includes about5 or more exercises. More preferably, a fitness regimen includes about15 or more exercises. Most preferably, a fitness regimen includes about30 or more exercises. In another embodiment, a fitness regimenpreferably includes between about 1 and about 100 exercises. Morepreferably, a fitness regimen includes between about 1 and about 75exercises, and most preferably a fitness regimen includes between about1 and about 50 exercises. According to yet another embodiment, a fitnessregimen preferably 30 includes about 125 or less exercises. Morepreferably, a fitness regimen includes about 100 or less exercises. Mostpreferably, a fitness regimen includes about 80 or less exercises.

In one embodiment, each exercise may be accompanied by instructionsdetailing how to properly perform the exercise. It may be desirable forthe instructions to be written and/or verbal. Written instructions maybe desirable because a golfer can print them out and take them to a gymor other workout facility. Preferably, however, each exercise includes avideo demonstration that illustrates how to properly perform theexercise, along with verbal and written instructions that describe whatis proper and/or improper. According to one aspect of the presentinvention, the video demonstration and/or written instructions may beaccessed and displayed using a wireless computing device. In thismanner, a golfer may observe how to properly perform an exercise duringtheir workout.

With reference to FIG. 3, one exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention is now discussed. According to this exemplary embodiment, thefitness regimen is initially designed for a predetermined evaluationperiod. The predetermined evaluation period is preferably chosen toallow a golfer enough time to get used to the exercises, while alsonoticing tangible results. Once the predetermined evaluation period hasexpired, the golfer may be required to perform the fitness tests(described above) again to re-evaluate his/her golf fitness handicap.After the golf fitness handicap has been re-evaluated, a new workoutregimen may be designed for the golfer. This may be repeated any numberof times as desired by the golfer.

The predetermined evaluation period is preferably about 10 workouts ormore. More preferably, the predetermined evaluation period is about 18workouts or more. Most preferably, the predetermined evaluation periodis about 30 workouts or more. In another embodiment, the predeterminedevaluation period is preferably between about 1 and about 30 workouts.More preferably, the predetermined evaluation period is between about 1and about 20 workouts.

It may be desirable for the workout regimen to include a variety ofexercises that are shuffled such that the golfer doesn't repeat the sameworkouts every day. Specifically, it may be desirable to have a golferlift weights for one workout and then do cardiovascular exercises forthe next workout. Alternately, it may be desirable for the golfer toperform power exercises for one workout, stretching exercises foranother workout, and cardiovascular exercises for a third workout. Theseare just examples, and may be modified by those skilled in the art.

In one embodiment, the present invention also includes a spreadsheet fora golfer to log information about his/her workouts, e.g., the number ofrepetitions, number of sets, duration of the activity, and the like.Preferably, the spreadsheet is accessible via a data network, e.g., theInternet, and storable on a central database or server. It may bedesirable for the golfer to use a wireless computing device to accessthe spreadsheet and log his/her information. One advantage of using aworkout log is that a golfer's progress may be charted over a period oftime. Moreover, graphs or other visual displays may be generated by thespreadsheet program, e.g., Microsoft Excel, that allows a golfer tovisually chart his/her progress.

One advantage of storing the workout log on a central database or serveris that data from a plurality of golfers may be analyzed to determinetrends in their progress. This may be desirable, for example, todetermine which exercises are most beneficial, or most effective, forthe greatest number of golfers. Alternately, it may be desirable todetermine if a particular exercise actually helps achieve the progressthat it purports to achieve. Thus, by analyzing the data in this manner,the exercises included in a workout regimen may be modified or changedto make them more effective. In one aspect of the present invention, thedata analysis may be implemented using computer software that candetermine trends in large amounts of data, e.g., data mining software.

As mentioned previously, one advantage of the present invention is thata golfer may obtain a customized fitness regimen without the costtypically associated with these servers. In one embodiment, the presentinvention, as described herein, can be provided to a golfer for a costof about $1000 per year, or less. More preferably, the present inventionmay be provided to a golfer for a cost of about $500 per year, or less.Most preferably, the present invention may be provided to a golfer for acost of about $250 per year, or less.

Although the present invention has been described with reference toparticular embodiments, it will be understood to those skilled in theart that the invention is capable of a variety of alternativeembodiments within the spirit of the appended claims. For example, thepresent invention may be used to generate a workout regimen for athletesthat participate in any sport including, but not limited to, baseball,hockey, basketball, football, tennis, soccer, swimming, track and field,boxing, skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, and field hockey.

In many of these sports, strength, stamina, and flexibility areimportant to the success of an athlete. For instance, it may bedesirable for a baseball player to increase their flexibility orstrength to improve their batting ability. Alternately, a hockey playermay want to increase their stamina, flexibility and/or their lower bodystrength. Thus, according to another aspect, the present inventionincludes the ability to generate a workout regimen that is customizedfor an athlete that participates in any sport. According to this aspectof the present invention, the input information may be different foreach sport, i.e., the fitness tests that an athlete performs may bespecifically tailored for the sport, e.g., a hockey player may berequired to perform fitness tests that focus on assessing his/her lowerbody strength, e.g., squats, the rotation of their shoulders, hips, orwrists, flexibility, e.g., the splits, whereas a baseball player maywant to focus on his/her upper body strength, ankle strength, therotational flexibility of their torso, strength of their wrists, and thelike. The workout regimen that is generated may then be customizedaccordingly. Of course, these are just examples. Skilled artisans willrecognize that the fitness tests and workout regimen may be customizedin a wide variety of ways, all of which are encompassed within the scopeof the present invention.

1. A golf assessment and improvement method, comprising: providing acomputing device accessible via a data network, wherein the computingdevice includes a processor and a memory; providing a plurality of inputinformation about a golfer to the computing device via the data network,wherein the input information includes at least one of a golfer'spersonal information and a golfer's physical fitness assessment; andgenerating a workout regimen based on the input information, wherein theworkout regimen includes at least one of cardiovascular exercises andmuscle strengthening exercises.
 2. The method according to claim 1,wherein the providing the golfer's physical fitness assessmentcomprises: directing a golfer to perform one or more fitness tests;directing a golfer to assess their performance of the one or morefitness tests based on predetermined criteria; and generating a firstgolf fitness handicap based on the golfer's assessment of theirperformance.
 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the generatingcomprises: generating a workout regimen for a predetermined evaluationperiod; directing a golfer to perform one or more fitness tests afterthe evaluation period is over; directing a golfer to assess theirperformance of the one or more fitness tests based on predeterminedcriteria; generating a second golf fitness handicap based on thegolfer's assessment of their performance; and generating a secondworkout regimen based on the second golf fitness handicap, wherein thesecond workout regimen in generated for a predetermined period of time.4. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: recordinginformation about the workout regimen; and storing the information in adatabase operatively connected to the computing device.
 5. The methodaccording to claim 1, wherein the workout regimen includes at least oneof cardiovascular exercises, weight-lifting exercises, stretchingexercises, Pilates, meditation, and yoga.
 6. The method according toclaim 2, wherein the workout regimen is based on the first golf fitnesshandicap.
 7. The method according to claim 2, wherein the fitness testsinclude at least one of a toe touch test, a deep squat test, a seatedtrunk rotation test, a hip rotation test, a single leg balance test, apelvic tilt test, a single leg bridge test, a side bridge test, a supinelatissimus dorsi test, a reach, roll, lift test, a open book test, and ashoulder rotation 90/90 test.
 8. The method according to claim 2,wherein the directing a golfer to perform one or more fitness testsincludes providing at least one of a video demonstration, audioinstructions, and written instructions describing how to perform each ofthe one or more fitness tests.
 9. A golf assessment and improvementsystem, comprising: a server accessible via a data network; a memoryoperatively connectable to the server and having a computer programstored thereon, wherein the memory is capable of storing a plurality ofinput information provided by a golfer, and wherein the plurality ofinput information is provided to the memory via the data network; and aprocessor operatively connected to the server, wherein the processorexecutes computer program instructions included in the computer program,and wherein the computer program generates a workout regimen based onthe plurality of input information.
 10. The golf assessment andimprovement system according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of inputinformation comprises at least one of a plurality of personalinformation and a physical fitness assessment.
 11. The golf assessmentand improvement system according to claim 9, wherein the data networkcomprises at least one of a local area network, wide area network, aprivate local area network, and a private wide area network.
 12. Thegolf assessment and improvement system according to claim 9, wherein theprocessor comprises one of a microprocessor, minicomputer, and mainframecomputer processor.
 13. The golf assessment and improvement systemaccording to claim 9, wherein the golfer is located in a remote locationfrom the server.
 14. The golf assessment and improvement systemaccording to claim 9, wherein the plurality of input information isprovided to the memory using a webpage accessible via the data network,and wherein the using the webpage includes authenticating the identityof the golfer.
 15. A sports assessment and improvement system,comprising: a server including a processor and a memory, wherein: theserver is accessible via a data network; and the memory includes acomputer program comprising computer program instructions; and aremotely located computing device capable of accessing the server viathe data network, wherein an athlete provides a plurality of inputinformation to the server using the remotely located computing device;wherein the processor is operatively connected to the memory to executethe computer program instructions in order to generate a workout regimenbased on the plurality of input information.
 16. The sports assessmentand improvement system according to claim 15, wherein the workoutregimen includes a plurality of exercises, and wherein the workoutregimen is accessible by the remotely located computing device.
 17. Thegolf assessment and improvement system according to claim 16, whereinthe athlete can store performance information regarding the plurality ofexercises on the server.
 18. The golf assessment and improvement systemaccording to claim 16, wherein the processor is capable of generatingindividual workout regimens for two or more athletes, and whereinperformance information regarding the two or more athletes regarding theplurality of exercises may be analyzed individually to determine a moreeffective workout regimen for each of the athletes.
 19. The golfassessment and improvement system according to claim 15, wherein theremotely located computing device includes one or more video cameras.20. The golf assessment and improvement system according to claim 15,wherein the workout regimen includes at least one of a videodemonstration, audio instructions, and written instructions of one ormore exercises.
 21. The golf assessment and improvement system accordingto claim 15, wherein the remotely located computing device comprises awireless computing device.
 22. An interactive method of performing asports assessment and improvement plan, comprising: using an interactiveprocess to evaluate an athlete's physical attributes that are related toa particular sport, including acquiring a plurality of input informationfrom fitness tests; and generating a workout regimen based on theplurality of input information, wherein the workout regimen is directedto improving the athlete's physical attributes.
 23. The interactivemethod of performing a sports assessment and improvement plan accordingto claim 22, wherein the fitness tests include one or more of a toetouch test, a deep squat test, a seated trunk rotation test, a hiprotation test, a single leg balance test, a pelvic tilt test, a singleleg bridge test, a side bridge test, a supine latissimus dorsi test, areach, roll, lift test, a open book test, and a shoulder rotation 90/90test.
 24. The interactive method of performing a sports assessment andimprovement plan according to claim 22, wherein the workout regimenincludes at least one of cardiovascular exercises, muscle strengtheningexercises, yoga, Pilates, stretching, and meditation.
 25. Theinteractive method of performing a sports assessment and improvementplan according to claim 22, wherein the using comprises: remotelyaccessing a server via a data network; and providing the plurality ofinput information to the server.
 26. The interactive method ofperforming a sports assessment and improvement plan according to claim22, wherein the sport comprises at least one of baseball, hockey,basketball, football, tennis, soccer, swimming, track and field, boxing,skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, and field hockey.
 27. Theinteractive method of performing a sports assessment and improvementplan according to claim 25, wherein the remotely accessing comprisesaccessing the data network using a wireless computing device.